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Compression Stockings: How to Use Them

Introduction

Specially fitted compression stockings are tight at the feet with a gradually looser fit on the leg. Because there are different types, it's best to use the kind that your doctor recommends and that work best for you.

Compression stockings are a type of sock you wear to help prevent blood from pooling in your
legs. They may help prevent blood clots in deep leg veins.

Compression stockings:

Are tightest at the foot. The tightness gradually loosens as the stocking fits higher on the leg.

Cover the leg from the arch of your foot to just
below or above your knee. Or they cover the leg like panty hose.

Can be purchased from
a medical supply store or a drugstore with a doctor's prescription. They may cost between $60
and $100 a pair (panty hose style are more expensive). They usually need to be
replaced after 4 to 6 months of regular use.

Are available without
a prescription, and you can buy them online. If you get them online, be sure to buy the right size and compression level recommended by your doctor.

Test Your Knowledge

Compression stockings are tight and help improve blood
flow in the legs.

Compression stockings can be a part of your daily routine. If they fit right, they should be snug but comfortable.

It's best to wear them all the time, unless you are bathing or sleeping. Plan on replacing your stockings every 4 to 6 months.

At first,
putting on a pair of compression stockings can be tricky. But with some practice, you'll find what works for you. Here are some tips:

Before you put them on

Hand wash new stockings after you buy them. It will make them more
flexible and easier to put on. Consider buying a second pair, if you can afford it. That way, you'll have a clean pair to wear while you wash the other.

Put a dressing on any
open wound before putting on the compression stockings.

Keep your stockings by your bed, so you can put them on when you first get up.

To put them on

Do it early in the morning, when you have the least swelling in
your legs.

Test Your Knowledge

Compression stockings are meant to be quite
snug. But if they hurt or cause problems, such as your toes turning dark or numb, call your doctor. Ask for help if you're having trouble getting or keeping your stockings on.

Compression stockings are meant to be quite
snug. But if they hurt or cause problems, such as your toes turning dark or numb, call your doctor. Ask for help if you're having trouble getting or keeping your stockings on.

Now that you have read this
information, you are ready to take an active part in your treatment by wearing
compression stockings every day.

Talk with your doctor or a certified fitter at a medical supply store about any problems you have with your compression stockings. The risk of going without compression treatment is too great to neglect wearing them.

When you
visit your doctor, take along your stockings and anything you use to help you put them on.

If you have questions about this information, print it out and take it with
you when you visit your doctor. You may want to use a highlighter to mark areas
or make notes in the margins of pages where you have questions.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use.